How to Survive Falling Overboard While Sea Kayaking

Ocean kayaking is such an exhilarating experience. It is you and the kayak against the ocean and sometimes you win and ride the waves all the way in. Sometimes the ocean wins and you have to try not to drown. In fact, the ocean wins a lot. Therefore, learning how to survive a wipeout is very important in sea kayaking. Here are a few tips to surviving falling overboard while sea kayaking.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sea kayak
• Paddles
• Life jacket
• Helmet

1. Wear a life jacket. Wearing a life jacket on can save your life in those rare moments when you least expect it, like when you are exhausted.

2. Pick out the right kayaking gear for sea kayaking. Ask an store assistant to help you find the right kayak and gear.

3. Hold on to your paddle. Learn how to swim with a paddle in one hand. Letting go of your paddle may cause you to lose it in the sea forever and then when you reach you kayak you will not be able to paddle home.

4. Try to grab on to your kayak, if you are in a sit on top of kayak, so you do not have to swim all the way to shore. Flip over, if you are in a sit in kayak. Practice flipping over in a pool or when the waves are small.

5. Kayak with a partner. Ask a partner to be there to flip your kayak or help you in anyway.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice in the small white water waves until you feel confident.
• Be careful not to get hit in the head with the kayak or paddles.
• Wear a helmet for safety.

Who Can Help:

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Resources

• Great Resource of Kayaking Links